On March 15, the Embassy of Turkmenistan in Pakistan jointly with the Institute of Peace and Diplomatic Studies (IPDS) held a conference in Islamabad titled “The Role of Neutrality in Strengthening International Peace” dedicated to the 30th anniversary of Turkmenistan’s permanent neutrality.
Opening the conference, Ambassador of Turkmenistan Atajan Movlamov spoke about the history of Turkmenistan’s neutrality, which has been twice recognized by the United Nations. He emphasized the uniqueness of this status in international diplomacy and its important role in ensuring regional and global security, stability and peaceful development of international relations. The Ambassador also presented the Concept of Turkmenistan’s activities and priorities within the framework of the UN-declared 2025 International Year of Peace and Trust, calling on all states to work together to implement the principles of peace and trust in the world order.
The conference was attended by Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs of Pakistan Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, UN Resident Coordinator in Pakistan Mohamed Yahya, IPDS President Farhat Asif, former Pakistani Ambassador to Turkmenistan Tariq Osman Haidar, Head of the Department of International Relations at the National Defense University of Pakistan Kurram Iqbal and Head of the Department of Social Sciences at the Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Institute of Science and Technology (SZABIST) Tarak Waheed.
The speakers stressed that over three decades, Turkmenistan's neutrality has proven its worth and compliance with the goals and values of the UN, becoming a recognized asset of the world community. The need for a wider use of the potential of neutrality in international relations to achieve peace, good-neighborliness and prosperity, as well as an effective platform for the peaceful resolution of conflicts was noted. The advisability of studying Turkmenistan's experience in building mutually beneficial relations and developing international cooperation was particularly emphasized.
The conference participants noted the symbolism of the date of the event, as exactly 30 years ago, on March 15, 1995, in Islamabad, in this very Crystal Ballroom of the Marriott Hotel, following the results of the historic III Summit of the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO), the Islamabad Declaration was adopted, recognizing and supporting the neutral status of Turkmenistan for the first time in the international arena.
Over the past three decades, Pakistan and Turkmenistan have signed more than 60 international agreements, laying a solid foundation for cooperation in various sectors. One of the most significant projects linking the two countries is the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline, often referred to as the "peace pipeline".
“The TAPI project is not just an economic initiative; it is a symbol of regional connectivity and stability. Energy security and economic interdependence are key to enhancing peace in the region, and TAPI plays a critical role in this regard,” IPDS President Farhat Asif said.
Beyond energy, Turkmenistan has expanded its offerings to Pakistan in terms of fiber optic connectivity and power transmission solutions, paving the way for expanded digital and energy cooperation. In addition, Turkmenistan’s potential integration with the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor under the Belt and Road Initiative could open up new trade opportunities, allowing Turkmenistan to access global markets through the Gwadar Port.
Pakistan and Turkmenistan have consistently collaborated on initiatives aimed at regional stability, particularly in Afghanistan. Through projects such as TAPI and transnational rail networks, both countries are seeking to improve connectivity and economic prosperity, benefiting not only their own economies but also the wider region.
Dr Farhat concluded the conference by reiterating the need to build on the legacy of diplomatic cooperation. “Neutrality has proven to be an effective tool for global security and development. The Turkmenistan model offers important lessons for the world in building peace,” she said.
Expressing gratitude to the Embassy of Turkmenistan and the distinguished speakers, she emphasized that the discussions held at the conference should inspire new partnerships, deepen diplomatic ties and contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous future.
The conference was attended by representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan, heads and staff of diplomatic missions, UN agencies and international organizations, ECO Science Foundation, think tanks, business community and the media of Pakistan.
The conference was followed by an Iftar dinner hosted by the Embassy of Turkmenistan. The event became an important platform for discussing the role of neutrality in the modern world and reaffirmed Turkmenistan's commitment to strengthening international peace and security.
ORIENT
